Why Siargao Is Our Favourite Island in the Philippines
If you want to really experience “island life” in the Philippines then a trip to Siargao is an absolute must. Siargao was the third stop of our Philippines trip and as soon as we stepped foot off that plane we knew we would love it. Sure, we’ve experienced island life before in places like Fiji and Rarotonga, but it was nothing like this. Keep reading for why Siargao is our favourite island in the Philippines!
The clear waters of Guyam Island
No mass tourism
We felt the entire island was on island time, not just the local parts. And it’s this reason we suggest getting to this island soon before it becomes the next El Nido (or worse, Boracay!). Don’t get us wrong, we have nothing against these two islands. We travelled to them during our trip and enjoyed our time there immensely, but it’s clear that tourism has completely taken over there. That “relaxed” feel has definitely disappeared, so much so in Boracay that the entire island is closing for six months due to environmental damage…
From stepping off the plane, walking across the tarmac and collecting your bag which has been carried across and dropped in the middle of arrivals, to the 45-minute bumpy tuk-tuk ride into town (we refused to pay three times that price for a van), and the warm and welcoming entrance we received from our hosts. It doesn’t take long to climatise to the chilled out vibe, the friendly locals, the hellos and high fives from school children, the countless puppies running out for cuddles, and the fact that WiFi is so scarce you quickly forget all about connecting to the digital world.
Exploring the island by scooter!
Beachfront villas are still affordable
What better way to experience island life than staying at a beachfront villa. Falling asleep to the sounds of the ocean waves, waking up to the most beautiful sunrise, and being cooked delicious, fresh Filipino meals. Oh and what made our stay even better was the fact that our villa was located away from town and surrounded by fields of palm trees. We spent four nights at Tao De Libertad, a beachfront villa up the coast from Cloud 9. As usual, we looked for places away from the main towns of General Luna and Cloud 9 and we found this place.
Our own beach, fresh coconuts chopped down by the hosts and the cutest live in puppy called Whitney. This was our ultimate paradise! And don’t forget our hosts who organised absolutely everything for us. Scooters turned up whenever we needed them. The island hopping tour was arranged for us when we decided to go the night before. We were even given an itinerary for our day on the scooter and were told the best time to visit the spots to avoid the crowds.
And since there’s no mass tourism here then staying in a beachfront villa won’t break your budget. The villa was surprisingly affordable for being a beachfront, all inclusive (breakfast and dinner) place.
Our beachfront villa
Surfer dudes and dudettes
What gives this place even more of an island feel is the surf. The town is full of locals (think cool Filipino surfer dudes and dudettes) hanging at Cloud 9 ready with boards for hire. And even if you don’t end up surfing then make sure you head down to Cafe Loca. A small beachfront cafe with great breakfast options, juices and smoothies. It’s the perfect place to chill and watch the local surfers. They even have loungers and hammocks down on the beach. Being from New Zealand we grew up surfing at the many surf beaches around us. So we didn’t end up surfing here and instead we spent our time exploring more of Siargao and surrounding islands.
Cloud 9
The breathtaking sights!
Magpupungko Tidal Flats, Cloud 9, Sugba Lagoon, Naked Island, Daku Island, Guyam Island, the list goes on. Not to mention just hopping on a scooter like we did and hitting those island roads! For us Coron has the most stunning lakes, El Nido has breathtaking lagoons, Boracay has some of the whitest sand beaches we had ever seen, and Siargao gets the award for the bluest waters and picturesque islands! We were actually left speechless during our visits to the islands at the colour of the water. Oh and don’t forget that everywhere you go you see palm trees, palm trees and more palm trees! If you want to live off fresh coconuts (and mangos) then you’ve come to the right place.
Magpupungko Tidal Flats (can you spot Hayley?)
We don’t know what else to say. Words can’t describe the beauty here and photos don’t do justice. It really is an island you need to get to, and soon!
Thinking of heading here? For all of our recommendations then check out our Philippines travel guide here!